Ian Snyder Latest Posts

Freelance Writer
Distance Traveled in 2025
Visited in 2025

Ian Snyder has had a passion for award travel ever since entering the miles and points world over a decade ago. He enjoys using them to see places both near and far, whether he’s traveling solo, with friends, or with his kids. Especially well versed in frequent flyer programs, Ian understands their intricacies and often is able to maximize his points using the best award deals.

Ian is closing in on 30 countries visited, which may seem like too few for someone who loves to travel as much as he does. But he also loves life in rural Northern California, and returning home from a trip is its own reward. More than anything, Ian wants to demonstrate that extraordinary travel is possible for the ordinary family. He loves helping his friends and family with their own award travel.

Can You Use Credit Card Travel Credits to Pay Award Change and Cancellation Fees?

One of the frustrating aspects of award travel is often needing to book well in advance to get the best price with your points and miles, knowing that your plans might change along the way. And some programs will charge you (handsomely!) if you have to make these changes. But if your credit card has travel credits, can you use these to cover the award change and cancellation fees?

ANA Mileage Club Guide: How to Earn, Redeem, and Maximize This Valuable Amex Transfer Partner

ANA Mileage Club is a frequent flyer program you don’t want to overlook — especially if you collect Amex points. With some of the best redemption rates for premium cabin travel and a strong lineup of airline partners, ANA miles can unlock serious value. This in-depth guide covers how to earn ANA miles, book award flights, maximize sweet spots, and navigate the program’s unique rules.

The Best Strategies for Earning United Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) by Flying

Achieving United Premier status requires you to earn Premier Qualifying Points (PQP), the primary qualification metric United uses. It more or less tracks how much you spend with the airline. However, there are some creative ways to earn Premier Qualifying Points through booking partner flights. It's often possible to out-earn the same itinerary using partner bookings. Let us show you how.

Marriott Annual Choice Benefits: Best Options and How to Select Your Perks Before the Upcoming Deadline

If you accrue 50 or 75 Marriott elite night credits in a calendar year, you'll be rewarded with a Marriott Annual Choice Benefit, one of the best perks of hitting these thresholds. Rather than an ongoing status benefit, you'll have a one-time selection from a list of options. The choices range from Nightly Upgrade Awards and Free Night Award to extra Elite Night Credits and even a $1,000 discount on a hotel brand mattress.